Congratulations on becoming a first-time pet owner! Along with the excitement and happiness that a new pet brings into the home, a new pet also comes with a huge responsibility. Whether you’ve recently adopted a new puppy or kitten or a pet in need of a forever home, Hôpital Vétérinaire St-Lambert is here to help you navigate your experience as a dog or cat owner. On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know to keep your new pet happy, healthy and, most importantly, safe!
Services your new pet will need in the first 12 months:
Veterinary exam
Not only do we want to meet your new four-legged friend, but it’s also important that they get to know us too! During an examination, we take the time to get to know you and your pet and to better understand their lifestyle. We’ll also perform a head-to-tail exam to ensure that your pet is healthy. This is a great time to ask us any questions you may have.
Puppy and kitten vaccinations (week 8, week 12, week 16)
Starting a proper vaccination program early will help keep your pet healthy for life. When the immunity derived from the mother’s milk starts to wane, it’s important to carefully schedule your pet’s vaccinations so that their own immune system is ready to protect them against diseases.
Dog and cat vaccinations (every 1–3 years)
Vaccines help protect against common infectious diseases seen in cats and dogs. They stimulate the body’s immune system to attack and “remember” the infectious organism to help it fight the infection in the future, if necessary. Many pets become seriously ill if they haven’t been vaccinated because their body is unable to fight off viruses effectively. Vaccines have prevented death and disease in millions of pets. They also protect people from diseases, such as rabies, that can be transmitted from pets to humans.
Dog and cat spaying & neutering (around 6 months)
Spaying or neutering is an act of responsible pet ownership. Not only are you helping control pet overpopulation, but spaying or neutering also helps eliminate or significantly reduce the risk of developing certain health and behavioural problems.
Dog and cat microchipping (anytime)
We strongly recommend microchipping your pet because it’s a safe way of keeping track of your furry friend. For instance, if your dog’s collar breaks off and he runs away or if your cat slips out the front door. If found, a permanent form of identification will make it easier to return your pet home. You can have your pet microchipped at our clinic at any time. However, it’s more common to do it while they’re being neutered or spayed.
Dog and cat flea & tick prevention (year-round)
It’s important to make an appointment for your pet’s annual checkup to get a prescription for a flea and tick prevention treatment that will protect them from dangerous parasites. Parasite prevention is particularly important from spring to fall and for pets who travel often. Call us to discuss the importance of year-round parasite prevention.
Dog and cat diet (anytime)
Even though they may be more interested in what you’re eating, cats and dogs have specific dietary needs depending on their age, lifestyle, and current health. Our veterinarians will provide nutrition advice to ensure your pet is getting a well-balanced diet.
Health insurance and veterinary savings account
You should consider the financial implications of pet ownership before adding a new member to your family. In addition to ongoing preventive care and annual checkups, we encourage our clients to be prepared for any emergencies that may arise. We recommend that you research the different health insurance options, in particular Trupanion, or open a separate savings account earmarked for veterinary expenses where you can deposit funds on a monthly basis. This way, you can provide for your pet’s future needs without the added stress!
What to expect on your first and future appointments
At Hôpital Vétérinaire St-Lambert, we’re here to help you feel confident as a new pet owner! Our team of experienced and compassionate veterinary professionals can answer any questions you might have and even provide essential information you didn’t know you needed. We will assess your pet’s health and provide the recommended care. From birth to their golden years, we’re here to meet all your pet’s needs.
You can count on us to provide superior care and excellent service every single time you walk through our doors. Call Hôpital Vétérinaire St-Lambert at 450-671-7264 to schedule an appointment and ensure your furry friend gets the proper care to live a long and healthy life by your side.